Entertaining Kids On A Road Trip – Tips For Parents

Looking for ideas on entertaining kids on a road trip but worry about too much screen time?

As someone who has taken several cross-country trips with young kids en-tow, trust me, sometimes the screen time is exactly what you need for your own sanity. But it doesn’t have to be mindless entertainment either, kids can be both entertained and still be learning at the same time with some fun, educational apps!

Educational Apps For Entertaining Kids On A Road Trip

Many kids have their own mobile device these days, and while mobile technology is increasingly a part of everyday family life, as a parent I want to make sure the time we do allow in front of a screen is beneficial.

Finding apps and activities that are educational, yet still fun, gives me a little peace of mind while I’m getting peace and quiet on a long road trip!

Educational apps for parents to check out

There are so many quality educational apps available today that we encourage parents to explore the App Store or Google Play for help in entertaining kids on a road trip. A few we recommend:

Duolingo is fun and effective for kids or adults learning a second language. Read more in-depth about Duolingo here.

Mathmateer, which is available to iPhone and iPad users, will keep grade-schoolers busy with 56 fun math missions.

Stack the States is perfect for a cross-country trip, teaching kids about U.S. geography, state capitals, and flags

How mobile technology can help parents make the most of that long road trip:

Mobile devices can help with every aspect of a road trip, from keeping the peace in the back seat to zeroing in on the cheapest gas and finding the perfect place to stop and eat. As long as you have a high-quality network like that of U.S. Cellular and a great mobile device like the Samsung S7 Edge, you can help calm the bickering and find your route along the way.

Stop by a U.S. Cellular store in your area and the associates can answer questions and provide app recommendations tailored to your specific road trip needs!

Also looking for a few non-tech ideas on entertaining kids on a road trip? Check out these articles on fun games to play on a road trip:

Jesica H

My name is Jesica and I'm happy to 'meet' you! I'm just living life and loving every minute of it! I try to not let things hold me down or hold me back, I just live!
Here at The Mommy Bunch, I offer solid advice on all things parenting, household, and living life as a working mom.

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I thought "are we there yet" was just a joke because my kids never asked us that while traveling....until just recently! Oh I now know the horror myself. Appreciate any tips that will avoid constantly being barraged with those four words that start to have the same impact as running nails down a chalk board. Very nice suggestions for apps that both educate and entertain. Reply

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When we do get the chance to take the family on a road trip, about 1/4 of the items we bring are to help entertain our kids. Apps are a great way for them to learn something new while challenging their abilities. I am so happy to have a Samsung S7 Edge as it allows my younger kids to watch something while their older sister is on her tablet in the car. Reply

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These apps sound great to keep the kids busy and entertained. It's so awesome to have something for them on the go all in one place. Reply

Victoria Heckstall

May 2, 2017 at 10:35 pm

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Take your toddler's blanket and pillow if there's room. This is extra important if your road trip includes an overnight stay. Kids like their own stuff, particularly at bedtime in a strange place. If your child is out of his car seat, he may nod off more easily if he puts the pillow against the window and rests his head against it. Reply

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Awesome!!! I am super excited about the Duolingo app because I have been begging my kids to speak French with me. They understand it well but do not want to venture into speaking it. Also, my son calls himself "The Math Master" so he will be happy about this app! I will totally give those a try: thank you! Reply

sara

May 4, 2017 at 2:43 am

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These are some great tips to help parents survive a long road trip! My kids love the stack the states app as well! Reply